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25 Large Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets
TosaMeet the Tosa, one of the biggest dog breeds from Japan. These animals were formerly bred for fighting, but thankfully, those days are gone. Now, the Tosa basks in the family life. It's far from a lazy dog breed, though. It takes its role as the stately and vigilant guardian of the family seriously. A properly trained and socialized Tosa is calm and affectionate with its family but naturally suspicious and aloof with strangers.
Remember, the breed was created for dogfighting, so your Tosa might not take too kindly to other animals or humans visiting your home. "They will show increased predator/prey behavior with cats and other small pets and may readily chase small children running around with possibly disastrous consequences due to their strength and large size," says Dr. Bell. In other words, Tosas prefer to be your one and only pet, and it pays to properly train them, especially if you have young kids.
Breed overview Height: 12.5 to 23.5 inches at the shoulder Weight: 100 to 200 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Tibetan mastiffAre you inviting a lion or a dog to share your home? It's hard to tell with the Tibetan mastiff's formidable size and mane of thick, dense fur. As a member of the working group, it veers on the side of being a large-and-in-charge guardian and independent thinker. It has a strong sense of self and confidently assumes it is an equal, not a pet. Yet the Tibetan mastiff is also mellow and very affectionate with its human family, dependent on their companionship to be happy and to avoid mischief. If these dogs are apart from you and alone for too long, they'll find ways to entertain themselves that aren't constructive. (Read: Huge dog, huge mess.)
Breed overview Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder Weight: 70 to 150 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Brian Stubbs/Getty Images Things to know before adopting a large dog breedYou've probably already thought about whether you have enough space for a huge dog, but there are a few more details to consider before adopting one of these large dog breeds. For starters, giant dogs wolf down a lot of food. "A dog who weighs 100 pounds eats almost five cups a day of commercial dog kibble; then add about one-third cup more for every 10 pounds over 100 pounds," says Lyndsey Larson, VMD, ABVP, a veterinarian at VCA Firehouse Animal Hospital in Denver.
Because of their size, the biggest dog breeds also require more medicine, including flea and tick preventatives. And big dogs make bigger messes with their fur, slobber and paws. All in all, you may need a bigger car, bigger poop bags or scoops, bigger crates, bigger dog beds and bigger muscles to deal with your extra-large pet. These are just a few weighty factors to consider when thinking about how much it will cost to own a dog of this size.
The largest dog breeds' puppy stageSmaller dogs generally reach their full size at around 12 months. The largest dog breeds take their time reaching their adult weight, hitting maturity between 18 and 24 months old.
Behavior and training challenges are magnified when you have a huge dog, so training during the impressionable puppy stage is essential. "A good rule of thumb is to get a large-breed pet into a training program and support those good habits at home between the ages of 16 weeks and one year," says Dr. Larson.
The largest dog breeds' life spanAlthough the reasons aren't entirely clear, most giant dog breeds have shorter life spans. They age more quickly, thus developing age-related diseases, such as osteoarthritis, earlier. This can make it difficult for them to get around or climb stairs. You may eventually need a ramp or a special lifting harness to help them up and down stairs or into a car. And with big dogs, knowing how to pick up a dog safely without hurting them or yourself is vital.
Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece on large dog breeds, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience as a reporter who has covered dogs and pets for seven years, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. For this piece, we relied on reputable primary sources and experts, including practicing veterinarians. We verified all facts and data and backed them with credible sourcing, and we will revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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Pidoodles? Doodlepits? Shelter Has No Idea What To Call Rare Mix-Breed Pups
An unusual pack of puppies have been causing a stir at Monmouth County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) thanks to their unexpected genealogy.
Thought to be the result of a goldendoodle and pit bull mix, the puppies affectionately dubbed "pidoodles" or "doodlepits" by staff have quickly melted hearts.
"The puppies were surrendered to the Monmouth County SPCA by owners who were unable to care for them," Barbara Lovell from the society in New Jersey told Newsweek.
"This is why we like to encourage people to spay and neuter their dogs. They came to us pretty skinny and definitely in need of bathing. It also appears that the owners did very little to no socializing with them, but they are friendly little babies," she explained.
Pictures of the puppies thought to be an unusual mix of goldendoodle and pit bull breeds. The litter was surrendered by a couple who could no longer care for them. Pictures of the puppies thought to be an unusual mix of goldendoodle and pit bull breeds. The litter was surrendered by a couple who could no longer care for them. Monmouth County SPCAWhether they're being called "dits" or "pitoods," the 5-month-old puppies are full of energy.
"They are active, gangly little pups with sweet temperaments," said Lovell. "We guesstimate that they'll all grow up to be medium-sized dogs—and a conversation piece!"
The puppies have been fully spayed, neutered and vaccinated and are excited to meet potential new families.
In hundreds of comments on the society's Facebook page people were delighted by the unusual dogs and shared their reactions.
"Cutie pitoodies of course," said Tara. While Kim dubbed them: "Designer pitties."
"Pit Boodles," said Carol. "They are going to be so smart and loving!"
Another Facebook user said: "I bet their tails never stop wagging," a comment the shelter replied to and said: "You're right about that!"
This is far from the first time people have been captivated by an unusual dog breed mix. Like when Chuepy—a rare mix of six different breeds—captured viral attention for his unusual looks.
Earlier this year people were left guessing which two dog breeds made up a rare yet "lovable" mix in 9-year-old Tucker. At 18-inches tall and 30 pounds in weight, he has unusual proportions and a lot of love to give.
When it comes to the "pitdoodle" puppies, all five are currently on the adoption floor at the New Jersey shelter waiting for new homes.
Pictures of the puppies who are all currently looking for their perfect forever home. Pictures of the puppies who are all currently looking for their perfect forever home. Monmouth County SPCA"The only requirements we have for these pups is a loving home where they can play and run around like any active, medium-sized dog," Lovell said.
But she pointed out another essential quality of adopters, too.
"I'd like to add that a loving home is one where a new owner is committed to training their puppy," she added. "Unfortunately, we see many older dogs surrendered to our shelter because their owners failed to provide simple training through puppyhood, and then decide that they are unable to deal with their dog's behavior."
The right training is something that is particularly important for young dogs that have come from a rescue situation: "These puppies came from what could have been a chaotic environment," explained Lovell. "[They] deserve owners who have the time and patience to teach them to live their best lives as a treasured pet."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
15 Elegant French Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets
15 French Dog Breeds That Make Great PetsSkip to main content
Très boneWhen you think of French dogs, you probably think of poodles first, but did you know they're not really French? The Frenchest of all dogs is actually from Germany. Its name, poodle, comes from the German pudel, meaning to splash. It was popularized as a society and circus dog in France, so we include it here as an honorary Frenchie! The curly-haired poodle was one of the most popular breeds in the United States for years, but now the most popular breed is another Frenchman, the French Bulldog.
And here's a surprise: Not all French dogs are lap dogs bred for the court at Versailles or for sitting quietly under the table at a Parisian sidewalk café. There are French dogs used for hunting, herding, sailing and other tasks, and they come in all sizes—even giant dog breeds. And for the right owner, they make delightful pets. Here are 15 of our favorite French dog breeds just waiting for you to say "oui."
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Reviewed for accuracy by: Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science. She's the author of 34 books, including Barron's Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds. ⓘ Teemu Tretjakov/Getty Images PoodleStandard, miniature or toy, the poodle has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States since the 1960s and consistently ranks among the top ten most beloved breeds. But here's some poodle trivia: The official dog of France actually originated in Germany, though it was French nobility who took a special interest in the breed. They were originally bred as duck hunters, and today poodles still do best when they have a job to do. These alert, super-smart dogs take well to training and need to be engaged in activities; leave them to their own devices, and they can get destructive. Poodles have hair, not fur, so while they require regular grooming, they may make great pets for some people with allergies. Smaller sizes tend to live longer.
Breed Overview Height: 10 inches or less (toy), 10 to 15 inches (miniature), 15 inches and up (standard) Weight: 4 to 6 pounds (toy), 10 to 15 pounds (miniature), 40 to 70 pounds (standard) Life expectancy: 10 to 18 years Olesya Pogosskaya/Gettyimages French bulldogMove over, poodles. There's a new dog on the block. In a 2022 American Kennel Club (AKC) survey of the most popular dog breeds in the United States, French bulldogs ranked No. 1, while poodles came in fifth place. And like poodles, the Frenchie is a transplant—the breed originated in England and was imported to France in the 1800s, where it became one of the most popular French dogs. Frenchies are loved for their friendly, playful temperament, and they're great with kids. Since they don't need a lot of exercise, they're also great apartment dogs, though they might suffer from some separation anxiety if left alone for too long. You also need to watch for health issues with these sweet pups, especially respiratory disorders and conditions associated with overheating.
Breed Overview Height: 11 to 13 inches Weight: Under 28 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years PapillonYou might say that the papillon is all ears—it sure looks that way, at least. Its large, erect ears have cascading tufts of fur, so it's easy to see where the toy breed got its name: In French, "papillon" means butterfly. This is another one of the French dog breeds with somewhat murky origins, though papillons were regulars in the French court since at least the 1600s. Marie Antoinette is even said to have walked to the guillotine clutching her pet papillon. (Don't worry. The dog's life was spared.) Smart and active papillons need a lot of attention and distraction, whether from learning to do tricks, obeying commands, or simply fetching a ball. They're also low shedders and, other than regular brushing, don't need much in terms of grooming.
Breed Overview Height: 8 to 11 inches Weight: 5 to 10 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years Kyle Reynolds/Getty Images BarbetThe barbet is a rare breed indeed: There are only about 600 of this webbed-foot French water dog in the world. Bred as duck hunters and companion dogs, barbets may date back to the 700s BCE and, as such, are considered one of the oldest dog breeds. Barbets are about the size of a standard poodle, and with their thick fur coats, they look a little like the poodle's unkempt cousin. That coat requires regular brushing and combing, though barbets don't shed much. This French dog breed also needs regular exercise and tasks to perform, and it especially loves retrieving a stick or toy from the water. If you have a swimming pool, you'll likely have one very happy barbet. They're good with children and other dogs, too.
Breed Overview Height: 19 to 24.5 inches Weight: 35 to 65 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years Great PyreneesAlso called the Pyrenean mountain dog, this gentle giant is a close relative of the Maremma sheepdog, one of our favorite Italian dog breeds. Raised in the Pyrenees mountains that straddle France and Spain, the breed was long used for the protection of sheep from hungry wolves and bears. Today, the Great Pyrenees is still used as a guardian of flocks in France and Spain, though most Pyrenees lead lives of leisure. They don't need a whole lot of exercise, but because of their size—they can weigh more than 100 pounds—they're not suited for apartment living. Great Pyrenees make affectionate family pets, though their predisposition to serving as guard dogs may make them somewhat wary of strangers. These big, white fur balls shed routinely and "blow" their coats once a year.
Breed Overview Height: 25 to 32 inches Weight: 85 pounds and up Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years BeauceronIf the Beauceron looks a little like a more robust Doberman, that's no accident. These French dogs are predecessors of the Doberman and have similarly been used as protectors of livestock and property and as working dogs in times of war. It gets its other names, Berger de Beauce and Bas Rouge (red stockings), from its distinctive red paws and lower legs. Beaucerons also have another defining feature: double dewclaws with two "thumbs" on each hindfoot. Despite their short, smooth coats, they do shed regularly, so brushing with a hand mitt or similar item is recommended. These loyal, strong-willed dogs are best for experienced dog owners. Gentle obedience training will help curb bad habits, such as jumping and mouthiness.
Breed Overview Height: 24 to 27.5 inches Weight: 70 to 110 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Carlos Alejo González Pérez/Getty Images Basset houndWould you have guessed that the basset hound is a French dog breed? We didn't! But this droopy-eyed, floppy-eared, jowly breed was developed in France, though it likely originated in ancient Greece. Traditionally used for hunting rabbits, the basset's extra-sensitive nose and short legs make it a top choice for tracking, whether it's on the hunt for a missing child or a criminal at large. They're also wonderfully docile with children and enjoy a good walk or play session. They shouldn't be allowed to wander off-leash, though, because if they pick up a scent, they won't stop until they get to the source! This unique breed is prone to eye infections, and its ears need to be cleaned regularly.
Breed Overview Height: Up to 15 inches Weight: 40 to 65 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years Berger PicardA herding dog from northern France, the Berger Picard fell on hard times during both world wars, when the breed nearly went extinct. It's still relatively rare, with only a few hundred of the French dogs in the United States, according to the AKC. Also called the Picardy shepherd, it has been in France since at least the first millennium and is considered the oldest breed of French sheepdogs. Today, they are increasingly popular family dogs that require human company and regular physical activity. This breed also has an independent streak that is best tempered with early socialization and lots of affection. Their wiry coats don't need much in the way of grooming, though they will shed their undercoat once a year.
Breed Overview Height: 21.5 to 25.5 inches Weight: 50 to 70 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years BriardThere's more to the Brie region of France than just soft, creamy cheese. Berger de Brie, or the briard, is a shagalicious sheepdog that for centuries was used for herding and defending flocks. Briards also saw duty in both world wars, which nearly resulted in the breed's extinction. Today, they're known as trusty companion dogs that, while wary with strangers, are loyal to their family and good with children. True to its working-dog roots, the briard needs chores, whether that's chasing a ball or accompanying you on a hike. It also needs a big, fenced-in yard in which to run off all that excess energy and regular brushing to keep its long coat from matting.
Breed Overview Height: 22 to 27 inches Weight: 55 to 100 pounds Life expectancy: 12 years BrittanyWith its classic spaniel appearance, it's easy to see why this breed was once called the Brittany spaniel. But the AKC dropped the "spaniel" part of the name in the 1980s, and now the breed is just the Brittany. Bred as bird dogs in the Brittany region of France, these pups are still popular hunting dogs but are likewise treasured as beloved family pets—for families that have lots of energy, that is. These working dogs need tons of exercise and activities, whether participating in relentless games of fetch or Frisbee or going on energetic walks. Given their bird-hunting instincts, they're probably not well-suited to homes with pet birds. Their silky coats do well with weekly brushing.
Breed Overview Height: 17.5 to 20.5 inches Weight: 30 to 40 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years Denys Rzhanov/Getty Images Dogue de BordeauxThe dogue de Bordeaux doesn't have a very happy history: It was originally bred by the ancient Romans for use in wars and dogfights. Later, this large, stocky breed was used for hunting, herding and as a guard dog. Today, these powerfully muscular dogs with massive heads are still intimidating, though they're also regarded as extremely loyal companion dogs who are good with kids. Dogues aren't for inexperienced dog owners, though, as they'll walk all over a passive handler. Oh, and they drool—big time. One drawback is their short lifespan; they typically only live for five to eight years.
Breed Overview Height: 23 to 27 inches Weight: 99 pounds and up Life expectancy: 5 to 8 years slowmotiongli/Getty Images Grand bleu de GascogneLong-legged, fleet-footed and always ready for a chase, the grand bleu de Gascogne was bred for hunting deer, wild boar and other large game in the Gascony region of France. These French dogs are still used as hunters in France. They are also reliable companion dogs and do well with other pups (or human family members) that are part of the "pack." These animals are known for their distinctive howling, so they're probably not suited for apartments or any place where they'll be left alone for long periods of time.
Breed Overview Height: 24 to 28 inches Weight: 70 to 77 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years CaptureLight/Getty Images Petit basset griffon VendéenDogs don't come much more cheerful than the petit basset griffon Vendéen, or PBGV for short. This compact dog bears some similarities to a long-haired dachshund, one of the most popular German dog breeds. Bred to hunt small prey, PBGVs still have a strong prey instinct and are prone to taking off after some particularly interesting scent. But they'll happily burn up their energy playing ball or exercising with their family members, to whom they are loving and loyal. These are terrific family dogs for households that have a lot of attention to devote to them. PBGVs have wiry coats that require weekly brushing.
Breed Overview Height: 13 to 15 inches Weight: 25 to 40 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years slowmotiongli/Getty Images French spanielAmong French dogs, the French spaniel might be the perfect all-around family dog. Bred for bird hunting, the French spaniel is also a calm and loving companion animal that's great with children and other dogs. This bundle of energy needs a lot of exercise and, ideally, a fenced-in yard in which to run around. French spaniels are generally quite healthy and have smooth coats that are easy to groom. The breed's temperament is mellow enough to make it a good choice for first-time dog owners.
Breed Overview Height: 21.5 to 24 inches Weight: 50 to 60 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Bichon friséWe'll let you in on a secret: The bichon frisé isn't really a French dog. Instead, its origins probably point to Tenerife, one of Spain's Canary Islands. Nevertheless, the adorably petite white pup became a favorite of the French court, and its French name stuck. Bichons top many a list of favorite dogs, including best for cuddling, best for people with allergies and best for small apartments. And really, with their warm eyes, button noses and perpetually sweet expressions, there's a whole lot to love about these little guys. Bichons don't shed very much, but they do require constant grooming—as in, nearly daily brushing. For families with small children, dogs don't come much more compatible than bichons.
Breed Overview Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches Weight: 12 to 18 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 15 years Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Elizabeth Heath tapped her experience covering dog behavior and health, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
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